Gentle, low-impact exercise that’s easy, free and available to everyone – here’s why walking rocks.
Walking strengthens your heart
Reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by walking regularly. It’s great cardio exercise, lowering levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.
Walking lowers disease risk
A regular walking habit slashes the risk of type 2 diabetes by around 60 percent, and you’re 20 percent less likely to develop cancer of the colon, breast or womb with an active hobby such as walking.
Walking helps you lose weight
A brisk 30-minute walk burns 200 calories. Over time, calories burned can lead to pounds dropped.
Walking prevents dementia
Older people who walk six miles or more per week are more likely to avoid brain shrinkage and preserve memory as the years pass. Since dementia affects one in 14 people over 65 and one in six over 80, we reckon that’s a pretty great idea.
Walking tones up legs, bums and tums
I know your ears have attained antenna status right now and your eyeballs are popped open *LOL* –
Give definition to calves, quads and hamstrings (thigh muscles) while lifting your glutes (butt muscles) with a good, regular walk. Add hill walking into the mix and it’s even more effective. Pay attention to your posture and you’ll also tone your abs and waist.
Walking boosts vitamin D
We all need to get outside more. Walking is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while getting your vitamin D fix.
Walking gives you energy
You’ll get more done with more energy, and a brisk walk is one of the best natural energizers around. It boosts circulation and increases oxygen supply to every cell in your body, helping you to feel more alert and alive.
Walking makes you happy
Yep – It’s true – exercise boosts your mood – trust me, I’m on a natural high when I exercise *Big Grin*.
Studies show that a brisk walk is just as effective as antidepressants in mild to moderate cases of depression, releasing feel-good endorphins while reducing stress and anxiety. So for positive mental health, walking’s an absolute must.
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